Cefn Blaidd

Get those walking boots on as it’s only a 10-minute stroll to Talley Abbey and the lakes, which are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. For more local hikes with views over the village, head to Mynydd Cynros (40 minutes’ walk) through community-owned woodland and orchards. Further afield, you can try challenging trails in the Brecon Beacons (40 minutes’ drive) or start from Llanddeusant (35 minutes) and hike to Llyn y Fan Fach (90 minutes’ walk) for a spot of invigorating wild swimming. If you fancy a day out on the Ceredigion coast, you’re in luck, with sheltered sandy beaches and the chance to spot dolphins at New Quay (50 minutes’ drive), Aberaeron (45 minutes) and Mwnt (an hour and 10 minutes). Active types can up the sporting ante with sailing or surfing lessons off Tresaith beach (an hour). Lovers of history will find plenty to please as well, with National Trust-owned Dolaucothi gold mines (15 minutes) open for underground tours of Roman-era tunnels, and romantic hilltop remains of medieval castles at Dinefwr (15 minutes) and Carreg Cennen (25 minutes).